Engineering Leadership

So  you’ve probably heard of elevator speeches before. You know, a speech that you could blurt out if you had 20 seconds on an elevator with someone. In theory, this should give someone an overview of what you do.

Let’s be real here, shall we? Most people don’t care about your elevator speech. When introduced via a typical elevator speech most people have already zoned out and are thinking about the best route to the snack table.  Admit it – You do this too!!  If you use those precious few seconds of introduction to rattle off a resume you’ve wasted an opportunity to make a memorable impression.

You know what else no one cares about??  Your job title.  The majority of the time, job titles do not tell you that much information – especially if the person is working in a different industry.  So sharing your title alone does not really do much to pique the interest of others.  It is often the starting point, but do not get lazy and think this is the end of it.

Also, no one wants to hear a speech.  People do NOT want to be talked TO.  Booooooorrrrring!  They want to talk WITH interesting folks.  So let’s not think of it as a speech or a chance to lecture someone on what you do, ok?  Ok!

Instead, shift your thinking to the goal of the elevator speech.  When someone says you, “So, Tell me about yourself,” think of it as an opportunity to hook them.  Make them curious.  Make them ask more questions.  The purpose of your elevator speech should be to entice the other person to want to get to know you.  THIS, my friend, is how you make an impression.  And THIS is why I like to call it a Ten Second Tease.